How to Pamper Yourself Without the Guilt

Whether a stay-at-home mom, a college student, or a working girl, we women take on the world each and every day. And that takes a great toll on us physically, mentally and spiritually. All too often, we are so busy taking care of business and the family, we just don’t think about taking care of ourselves. But who has the time or the money to go on an island vacation or take a trip to the spa? The little inexpensive gifts you give yourself can break up the monotony of the daily grind and lift your spirits. Whether your pleasure is Gucci replica handbags, a darling little pair of new earrings, or discount designer handbags, feel free to treat yourself. You deserve it!

It is okay to give yourself permission to be a bit self-indulgent every once in a while. In addition to helping you feel relaxed and rejuvenated, it will benefit everyone you interact with as well. As the saying goes, “When mama’s happy, everybody’s happy.” Forget about feeling guilty. The positive feelings that are created and the more enjoyable interactions with others far outweigh the few moments that are spent while tuning out the world and putting everyone else’s needs on hold.

There is no one right way to unwind. How each person finds their bliss is unique to the individual. Sometimes the simplest things provide the greatest relief. Simply turning off the phone and the computer for a while provides a great relief as well as an empowering feeling. Some women enjoy spending just one hour a week by turning their bathroom into their own private spa. Just fill the bathtub with warm water and bath salts. Light a few candles to provide soft, low lighting in a calming scent such as lavender. Play some favorite music, pour a glass of wine and soak all your troubles away.

Since the bath will make the nails soft and clean, why not take a few more minutes and give yourself a manicure or pedicure? After all, you need to keep yourself groomed anyway. Exfoliating elbows, knees and feet is a great way to feel refreshed and pretty. All of this can be accomplished while a soothing facial mask quickly brightens your skin and outlook, too.

If there isn’t time for a leisurely bath, then another affordable way to improve your mood is to buy yourself a beautiful bouquet of flowers, a bottle of wine, and a small (but nice) box of chocolates. These can be enjoyed all week long and continue to make you feel special. Also, take a little time out every day to pursue a hobby you love-exercise, scrapbook, or go on a bike ride with your kids. Do whatever puts a smile on your face and makes you feel good. A very relaxing routine to try is to settle down in bed with any book or magazine that you read purely for enjoyment. No homework or informative reading is allowed.

Every woman deserves a little pampering every once in a while. So, do you and the people you love a favor and start being good to yourself. If nothing else, you’ll live longer and get fewer wrinkles.